Fancy a European coupe or convertible – one that has a bit of “thrust” under the bonnet? Maybe 225 kW under the pump will do the trick? Maybe the perky little BMW 135i will be just the “bee’s knees” for you.

There is loads of style to be had in the 135i. The sporty body kit, bulging

The little Beemer never looks better than squat down with the slightest of leans speeding around a tight corner. Most definitely, the 135i is a driver’s car that BMW have showed their prowess in chassis design. Perhaps coincidentally, it was also the 2002 turbo that was considered the most exciting model in its day. And today the 135i coupe sports the twin-turbo 3-litre straight-6 power house that first appeared in its 3-series brother.

The twin-turbo engine is a gem. In fact it is brilliant fun. It offers endless hard core power when demanded, and yet the engine is elastic and happy to tick over all day long around town or on the open road. After driving this machine, I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to spend some decent time at the wheel at high speed. The BMW 135i is an eager rear-wheel-drive that is dynamically fabulous. The powerful fade-free brakes, with hot looking six-piston callipers at the front, and the accurate steering make the car cope with higher speeds where most people would never dare to experience. The twin-turbo unit pumps out 400Nm of torque and ensures that you can experience the torquey thrust from way down in the engine rev count – from just 1300 rpm. Sprints are fun. So be warned! The BMW 135i manages to take the 0-100 km/h dash out in a little over five seconds. It’s actually only half a second slower than the current M3 model. The twin-turbo produces the same amount of torque as the V8 M3, but while the M3 peaks at 3900rpm, the 135i maintains maximum torque from 1300 – 5000 rpm. When underway, you can experience 135i’s slick shifting 6-speed manual or six-speed auto gearbox that makes wonderful use of the engines creamy torque.

The BMW 135i features the M-Sports package. What’s in the package? The package includes: the M Sports Suspension (for higher traction and reduced body roll), 18-inch wheels with performance tires, M logo doorsill trims, an M leather sport steering wheel and an M logo footrest for the driver’s left foot. The leather appointments on the gearshift lever and handbrake are finished in high-quality soft leather. The roof lining on the M Sports Package comes in Anthracite, and the interior features offered in this package are rounded off by Glacier Silver aluminum interior trim that highlights the sporting character of the cockpit. The M Sports Suspension also comes with a high-performance brake system incorporating six-piston fixed callipers on the front axle and two-piston fixed callipers at the rear. The M Aerodynamics Package includes specially-designed front and rear bumpers, as well as special rocker sills and fog lamps. The modern interior design incorporates high-quality, sophisticated trim with luxurious upholstery and colour choices. The car is packed with luxury items that include climate control, electric windows, a high quality stereo, cup holders, auxiliary points and electric front memory seats – to name a few.

The BMW 135i boasts BMW’s industry-leading brake and stability control systems. These include the ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) and ASC (Automatic Stability Control) systems that prevent the drive wheels from spinning. The CBC (Cornering Brake Control) system stabilizes the car whenever necessary during application of the brakes in a bend. All of these features functions are part of the car’s DSC Dynamic Stability Control system. This is the system that can apply the brakes to each individual wheel and reduce engine power which keeps the car firmly in a straight line if things get a little hairy. When networked with the optional Active Steering system, the DSC unit can also prevent the car from swerving out of control on slippery surfaces by counter steering, with the appropriate quantity, to allow the driver regain control of the vehicle. Wow!!

A five star safety result means that you have the world’s leading safety features ready to protect you in the event of a nasty accident. Not your fault, of course!

Delight yourself with a test drive today in one of Europe’s smallest but most entertaining cars. You will be impressed.

The current model series includes the:

• BMW 135i Sport Coupe
• BMW 135i Sport Convertible

For any more information on the BMW 135i, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of BMW dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

Back to BMW Car Reviews